Affidavits for San Francisco residents, labeled Registration Affidavit of Alien Enemy [male] and Registration Affidavit of
Alien Female, arranged alphabetically by surname. Summary sheets of registration affidavits collected by each police district,
arranged by district and then alphabetically by surname.

Background

On November 16, 1917, all males in the United States older than 14 who were "natives, citizens, denizens, or subjects" of
the German Empire were required to register as alien enemies. In 1918, an act of Congress included women aged 14 and older.
The U.S. Attorney-General requested that the San Francisco Police Department administer the regulations under the general
supervision and direction of the United States Department of Justice. Registration affidavits were filed at police district
stations. Then each district sent its collected registration affidavits along with a summary sheet to the Chief Registrar.
Each "alien enemy" was issued a registration card with photograph and identifying information, which he was required to have
on his person at all times. He also needed permission from the local registrar to travel or change place of residence. Certain
areas were also off-limit zones as deemed by the military. The Armistice was declared on November 11, 1918, and all regulations
on enemy aliens were lifted December 25, 1918.

Extent

9.0 cartons
(9 cubic ft.)

Restrictions

All requests for permission to publish or quote from manuscripts must be submitted in writing to the City Archivist. Permission
for publication is given on behalf of the San Francisco Public Library as the owner of the physical items.

Availability

The collection is open for research. Please call the San Francisco History Center for hours and information at 415-557-4567.